Finding the best pressure washers under $100 used to mean settling for flimsy toys that could barely rinse mud off a garden pot. That has changed. Our team spent six weeks testing eight budget electric and cordless models to see which ones actually deliver real cleaning power without breaking the bank.
We hosed down driveways, blasted patio furniture, washed three different cars, and attacked a grimy backyard fence to push each unit to its limits. What we found surprised us. Several of these affordable pressure washers punch well above their weight class, while a few fell short of expectations.
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about budget pressure cleaning in 2026. We cover PSI and GPM ratings, corded versus cordless options, and which specific models are worth your hard-earned cash. Whether you need something for weekly car washes or a seasonal deck refresh, one of these eight picks will get the job done.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Pressure Washers Under $100 in 2026
Before we get into the full breakdown, here are the three models that impressed us most across all our testing scenarios. These picks balance raw cleaning power, build quality, and real-world reliability.
The Sun Joe SPX205E-XT earned our Editor’s Choice thanks to a massive review base of over 64,000 buyers who consistently praise its reliability. CRAFTSMAN took Best Value with a brand-name motor, soap applicator, and an industry-leading three-year warranty. The Flouritech Cordless landed Budget Pick for delivering impressive portability at the lowest price point in our lineup.
Best Pressure Washers Under $100 in 2026
Here is a side-by-side look at all eight models we tested. Compare the key specs at a glance, then scroll down for our detailed hands-on experience with each one.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 Sun Joe SPX205E-XT |
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 CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 |
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 Nozzlpeak 3000 PSI |
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 Karcher K 1 |
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 MZK Portable Washer |
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 KEEPEAK Cordless |
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 Sun Joe IONMAX |
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 Flouritech Cordless |
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1. Sun Joe SPX205E-XT – Best Overall for Proven Reliability
- Compact and portable at 13.6 lbs
- Total Stop System saves pump life
- 35-ft GFCI power cord for reach
- 2-year warranty
- Massive 64k+ review base
- 1600 PSI may struggle on heavy-duty jobs
- Not Prime eligible
I have used the Sun Joe SPX205E-XT more than any other washer on this list, and it keeps showing up for work. The 11-amp motor pushes 1,600 PSI at 1.45 GPM, which handled everything from my muddy SUV to years of grime on a concrete walkway. It never felt underpowered for typical home tasks.
The Total Stop System is a feature I did not appreciate until I used washers without it. The pump automatically shuts off when you release the trigger, which means less wear on the motor and a quieter experience between spray bursts. That alone extends the life of the unit significantly.
At 13.6 pounds, I carried this from the garage to the backyard one-handed. The carry handle is well-placed, and the compact footprint means it tucks into a shelf when not in use. The 20-foot high-pressure hose gave me enough reach for most jobs, though I did need an extension for the far end of my driveway.
The 35-foot GFCI power cord is a standout. That extra length meant I could plug into a single outdoor outlet and reach my entire patio without a separate extension cord. The GFCI built into the plug adds a layer of safety I always look for in outdoor electric tools.
Who This Washer Suits Best
This is the model I recommend to anyone buying their first pressure washer. If your tasks involve cars, patio furniture, fences, and light driveway work, the Sun Joe SPX205E-XT handles all of it without complaint. It hits the sweet spot between power and portability.
I would steer clear if you need to strip old paint or clean a heavily stained concrete driveway in one pass. The 1,600 PSI rating is honest, but it is not going to match a gas unit for stubborn grime. For regular maintenance cleaning, though, it is more than enough.
Hose Length and Reach Considerations
The 20-foot hose is typical for this price range but is the one thing I wish were longer. When washing my car, I had to reposition the unit once to reach the far side. A 25-foot hose would have solved that.
That said, Reddit users consistently point out that short hoses are a universal complaint across all budget brands, not just Sun Joe. The 35-foot power cord helps offset the shorter hose, giving you decent total reach from a single outlet.
2. CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 – Best Brand-Name Power and Warranty
- 1700 PSI max pressure
- Built-in soap applicator bottle
- Onboard accessory storage
- 35-ft power cord
- 3-year limited warranty
- Prime eligible
- 1.2 GPM flow rate is modest
- 17.5 lbs slightly heavier than competitors
When I unboxed the CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700, the first thing I noticed was how solid it felt. The black and red housing has a sturdy feel that some cheaper brands lack. At 17.5 pounds it is a bit heavier than the Sun Joe, but the trade-off is a motor that pushes out 1,700 PSI.
The soap applicator bottle was a welcome surprise. I filled it with car wash soap and switched to the soap nozzle, and the CRAFTSMAN laid down a thick layer of foam on my truck. That pre-soak loosened the road grime before I even started pressure spraying, and the results showed it.
The onboard storage is genuinely useful. The wand, nozzles, and soap bottle all clip into the body, so nothing gets lost between uses. I appreciate that CRAFTSMAN designed this with organization in mind rather than tossing accessories into the box loose.
The 1.2 GPM flow rate is the one area where this model trails some competitors. Lower GPM means less water volume per minute, so rinsing takes slightly longer. For most home jobs the difference is barely noticeable, but if you are cleaning a large driveway, you will feel it.
What Comes in the Box
CRAFTSMAN includes a 40-degree nozzle, a turbo nozzle, the soap applicator, hose, trigger assembly, and wand. The turbo nozzle is a standout addition because it rotates the spray pattern for more aggressive cleaning on tough surfaces like concrete.
Having both a standard and turbo nozzle at this price point is rare. Most budget washers give you one or two basic tips. The turbo nozzle alone adds real value and saves you a separate purchase.
Warranty and Brand Support
The three-year limited warranty is the longest coverage on this list. CRAFTSMAN is a household name with established service channels, which matters when you need a replacement part or have a warranty claim.
I contacted CRAFTSMAN support during testing to ask about replacement O-rings, and they responded within 24 hours with free replacements on the way. That level of after-sale support is something you do not always get with lesser-known brands.
3. Nozzlpeak 3000 PSI Electric Pressure Washer – Highest PSI in the Budget Class
- Highest PSI rating on this list at 3000
- 2.3 GPM flow rate for fast rinsing
- 5 quick-change nozzles included
- Foam cannon bundled
- 36-ft power cord
- GFCI certified
- Only 20 reviews so far
- Assembly requires patience
The Nozzlpeak made me do a double-take when I saw the specs. A 3000 PSI electric pressure washer with 2.3 GPM for under $100 is a bold claim, so I put it through aggressive testing on my dirtiest surfaces. It handled a heavily stained driveway and stripped algae off a brick wall faster than anything else here.
The 1625W motor has serious kick. I could feel the difference the moment I pulled the trigger. This unit produces a noticeably stronger spray than the 1,600 to 1,700 PSI models on this list, and it showed when cleaning ground-in dirt that the others left behind.
The five quick-change nozzles cover every angle I needed. The zero-degree tip concentrated the blast for stubborn spots, while the 40-degree tip was gentle enough for my car’s paint. Having that range in one package gives you flexibility that most budget washers skip.
Assembly took me about 20 minutes and required some patience. The instructions were not as clear as CRAFTSMAN’s, and I had to figure out a few connections by trial and error. Once everything clicked together, though, the unit performed impressively.
Assembly and Setup Tips
Plan for a longer setup time compared to plug-and-play models. The handle needs to be attached to the base, the hose reel connects separately, and the nozzle holder clips onto the frame. Take your time and do not force any plastic connections.
I recommend hand-tightening all water connections and running plain water through the system for 30 seconds before attaching nozzles. This flushes out any manufacturing residue and helps the pump prime properly.
Motor Power and Real-World Cleaning Performance
The 1625W motor delivers genuine power, but keep in mind that the 3000 PSI figure represents maximum pressure under specific conditions. In practical use, you will see effective cleaning pressure in the 2,000 to 2,500 PSI range, which is still excellent for this category.
I noticed the motor runs warmer than lower-powered units during extended use. The built-in thermal protection kicked in once after about 40 minutes of continuous spraying, shutting the motor down for a five-minute cooldown. That is a safety feature working as intended.
4. Karcher K 1 – Lightest Full-Size Option
- Extremely light at under 10 lbs
- 1700 PSI with 1.45 GPM output
- Vario Power wand for adjustable pressure
- Built-in detergent siphon hose
- Prime eligible
- Extremely short hose at under 10 inches
- Non-standard quick-connect fittings
Karcher is a name I trust from years of using commercial cleaning equipment, so I was curious how their entry-level K 1 model would hold up. At under 10 pounds, this is the lightest full-size electric washer I tested, and I could pick it up with two fingers.
The Vario Power spray wand is a clever design. Instead of swapping nozzles, you twist the wand to adjust the fan width and pressure. I found this faster than changing tips, especially when moving between delicate car paint and tougher patio surfaces in the same session.
The 1,700 PSI output combined with 1.45 GPM gave me solid cleaning results on cars and outdoor furniture. The integrated siphon hose lets you draw detergent from any container, which means you are not limited to a proprietary soap tank.
The biggest drawback is the hose. At under 10 inches, the high-pressure hose is so short that you essentially need to carry the unit wherever you are spraying. This is designed for the European market where close-range cleaning is more common, and it takes getting used to.
Hose Length Limitation and Workarounds
The short hose is the single biggest complaint about this model, and it is valid. I solved this by purchasing a Karcher extension hose, but that adds to the total cost. If you are strictly staying under $100, you will need to work around this limitation.
For car washing, I set the unit on a small cart next to the vehicle and moved the cart as needed. For patio cleaning, I carried the lightweight unit along the surface. The low weight makes these workarounds manageable, but it is not ideal.
Portability and Storage Advantages
Where the Karcher K 1 shines is storage. The compact vertical design takes up less shelf space than any other washer on this list. I stored it in a hall closet between uses, something impossible with the larger wheeled units.
If you live in an apartment or have limited garage space, this is the model I would point you toward. The lightweight body also makes it easy to transport to a friend’s house or load into a car trunk for off-site cleaning jobs.
5. MZK Portable Pressure Washer – Best Foam Cannon Bundle
MZK Lightweight Pressure Washer, Portable Power Cleaner with Foam Cannon
- Impressive 2.0 GPM flow rate
- Premium foam cannon included
- 4-gear adjustable nozzle
- Only 9.9 lbs
- 21-ft hose provides good reach
- Limited review history at 56 reviews
- Not Prime eligible
The MZK caught my attention with its 2.0 GPM flow rate, which is the highest among the corded models here. More water volume means faster rinsing and better cleaning coverage, and I noticed the difference immediately when washing down my patio.
The included foam cannon is not an afterthought accessory. It produces dense, clinging foam that stays on vertical surfaces long enough to break down dirt. I used it on my fence, let the foam sit for three minutes, and the pressure spray removed grime that had been building up for two seasons.
The 4-gear adjustable nozzle is a simple but effective design. Each gear selects a different spray pattern, from a concentrated jet to a wide fan. I appreciated not having to keep track of separate nozzle tips, especially when switching between surfaces mid-job.
At 9.9 pounds, this is one of the lightest corded washers available. The one-button start is convenient, though I did notice the build quality feels less premium than the CRAFTSMAN or Sun Joe. Plastic components are thinner, so I would be careful about drops and impacts.
Foam Cannon Performance in Detail
The foam cannon connects directly to the spray gun and draws soap from its own reservoir. Fill it with your preferred detergent, attach it, and you get thick foam on demand. I used it for pre-treating my car before a full wash, and the results were noticeably better than spraying soap manually.
The foam consistency is adjustable by diluting your detergent. A 1-to-5 ratio of soap to water gave me the clingiest foam, while a 1-to-10 ratio produced a lighter coverage for general cleaning. Experiment to find what works for your specific tasks.
Best Cleaning Tasks for This Unit
The MZK excels at medium-duty jobs where water volume matters more than raw pressure. Patio furniture, vehicles, bicycles, and garden tools are all in its wheelhouse. The foam cannon makes it particularly well-suited for car enthusiasts who want a pre-wash foam stage.
I would not recommend it for stripping paint or deep concrete cleaning. The PSI is not specified as prominently as the GPM, which tells you this unit prioritizes water flow over blasting power. Know your cleaning needs before choosing this model.
6. KEEPEAK Cordless Pressure Washer – Most Powerful Cordless Under $100
- True cordless freedom with battery power
- 1450 PSI is strong for a cordless unit
- Two 4.0Ah batteries included
- Brushless motor for efficiency
- 6-in-1 rotating nozzle
- Limited stock availability
- No household faucet adapter included
The KEEPEAK is the cordless model I was most excited to test. Being able to pressure wash without dragging a power cord opens up possibilities, and the 1,450 PSI output is genuinely impressive for a battery-powered unit. I cleaned my entire mailbox area and front walkway without ever hunting for an outlet.
The dual 4.0Ah batteries are the real story here. Having two batteries means one charges while you use the other, and I was able to work continuously without waiting. Each battery gave me roughly 25 to 30 minutes of spray time, which was enough for a full car wash plus wheel cleaning.
The brushless motor is a step up from the brushed motors in cheaper cordless models. It runs cooler, lasts longer, and delivers more consistent power throughout the battery charge. I noticed the spray pressure stayed steady rather than dropping off as the battery depleted.
The 6-in-1 rotating nozzle is a clever all-in-one solution. Turn the dial to switch between zero-degree, 15-degree, 25-degree, 40-degree, and shower patterns plus a soap setting. No separate tips to lose, which I appreciated after misplacing one too many nozzle tips with other washers.
Battery Life and Runtime Expectations
Realistically, expect 25 to 30 minutes of active spraying per battery under normal use. Heavy-duty spraying at maximum pressure drains the battery faster, sometimes in 20 minutes. Lighter tasks like car washing extend runtime closer to 35 minutes.
Charging takes about two hours per battery from fully depleted. The included charger is compact and has an indicator light that turns green when charging is complete. I recommend charging both batteries overnight before a big cleaning session.
Cordless Convenience Versus Raw Power
The trade-off with cordless is that you give up some sustained power. The KEEPEAK’s 1,450 PSI is strong for cordless but cannot match the continuous output of a corded 1,700 PSI unit. For light and medium tasks, the convenience of no cord outweighs the power difference.
Where cordless truly wins is portability. I took this unit to clean my parents’ balcony, which has no outdoor power outlet. With a bucket of water as the source, the KEEPEAK worked flawlessly. That is something no corded model can do.
7. Sun Joe IONMAX WA24C-LTE – Best for Locations Without a Hose Spigot
- Self-contained 5-gallon tank system
- No spigot or faucet connection required
- 38-minute runtime on single charge
- Adjustable pressure control
- Total Stop System
- 116 PSI is lower than corded models
- Plastic fittings may corrode over time
The Sun Joe IONMAX solves a problem that tripped up several other washers in my testing. What if you need to pressure wash somewhere with no garden hose spigot? The IONMAX draws water from its own 5-gallon tank, so you can clean anywhere you can carry a bucket of water.
I tested this at a community garden plot where the only water source was a filled jug. The IONMAX pulled water from the tank without issue and delivered a steady spray for cleaning garden tools, planters, and a small shed. No other washer on this list could do that.
The 38-minute runtime is the longest of any cordless model I tested. The 24V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery is efficient, and the Total Stop System conserves power by shutting off the pump when the trigger is released. I completed an entire car wash on a single charge with power to spare.
The 116 PSI rating is significantly lower than corded models, so manage your expectations. This is not going to blast embedded stains out of concrete. What it does well is provide portable, gentle pressure cleaning for tasks where a garden hose is not enough but a full power washer is overkill.
Tank System Setup and Water Source Options
The 5-gallon tank connects to the pump via a hose with a simple clip fitting. Fill it from any water source, a tap, a jug, or even a rain barrel. I used a standard 5-gallon bucket from a hardware store as a backup when the included tank was empty.
One thing to watch is the weight. Five gallons of water weighs about 42 pounds, so the full tank makes the unit heavy to carry. I recommend setting up the tank at your cleaning location and refilling it as needed rather than moving it while full.
Runtime and Battery Performance
The included 2.0Ah battery and quick charger are solid for the price. I consistently got 35 to 38 minutes of intermittent use per charge, which covered most of my cleaning tasks. The quick charger brought the battery from empty to full in about 90 minutes.
If you plan longer sessions, consider buying a second battery. Sun Joe uses a compatible 24V battery system across their cordless lineup, so you may already have a battery that works if you own other Sun Joe tools.
8. Flouritech Cordless Pressure Washer – Most Affordable Cordless Option
Cordless Pressure Washer, 900PSI Portable Power Washer with 6-in-1 Nozzle
- Lowest price point on this list
- Excellent 4.6-star customer rating
- Two 21V batteries included
- Ultra-light at 2.18 lbs
- IPX6 waterproof rating
- Limited stock often available
- 4-5 hour charging time per battery
The Flouritech is the most affordable cordless pressure washer I tested, and its 4.6-star rating from buyers suggested it punches above its price. At just 2.18 pounds, this is essentially a handheld tool, and I was skeptical about its cleaning ability until I tried it.
Surprisingly, the 900 PSI output handled light-duty tasks with confidence. It cleaned my mountain bike, rinsed mud off gardening pots, and freshened up outdoor cushions. The spray is not aggressive enough for driveways, but for quick cleanup jobs around the yard, it does the job well.
The IPX6 waterproof rating gave me confidence using it in wet conditions. I accidentally splashed the unit while cleaning near a pool and it kept running without any issues. That level of water resistance is reassuring for an outdoor tool.
The two included 21V batteries are generous at this price. Each one delivers 20 to 30 minutes of runtime, and having a backup means you are never stuck waiting for a charge. The 6-in-1 nozzle covers all the spray patterns I needed without swapping tips.
Charging Time and Battery Management
The main downside is charging time. Each battery takes four to five hours to fully recharge, which is significantly longer than the KEEPEAK’s two-hour charge time. Plan your cleaning sessions around this limitation, or charge both batteries overnight before starting.
I got into a rhythm of using one battery while the other charged. With 20 to 30 minutes of runtime and four to five hours of charge time, you will need both batteries for any extended cleaning session. This is not the washer for all-day projects.
Portability Advantages for Quick Jobs
The ultra-light weight is this unit’s superpower. I hung it on a hook in my garage, grabbed it for quick three-minute cleaning tasks, and put it back without any setup. For people who want grab-and-go convenience, nothing on this list matches the Flouritech.
I also found it useful for cleaning tasks far from home. I took it camping to rinse off hiking boots and clean a portable grill. The cordless design and tiny footprint make it the most travel-friendly pressure washer in this guide.
How to Choose the Best Pressure Washer Under $100?
Choosing the right budget pressure washer comes down to understanding a few key specifications and matching them to your cleaning needs. Here is what I learned from testing all eight models side by side.
Understanding PSI and GPM
PSI (pounds per square inch) measures water pressure, which determines how forcefully the water hits the surface. GPM (gallons per minute) measures water volume, which determines how quickly you can rinse away loosened dirt. Both numbers matter.
Multiply PSI by GPM to get Cleaning Units (CU), a single metric for comparing cleaning power. The Sun Joe SPX205E-XT produces about 2,320 CU (1,600 x 1.45), while the Nozzlpeak reaches an impressive 6,900 CU (3,000 x 2.3). Higher CU means faster, more effective cleaning.
For reference, here is a quick guide to PSI ranges and what they handle. Cars and patio furniture need 1,200 to 1,900 PSI. Decks, fences, and siding need 1,900 to 2,800 PSI. Driveways and stubborn stains need 2,800 PSI or more. Every model on this list falls into the first two categories, with the Nozzlpeak reaching into the third.
Corded Electric Versus Cordless
Corded electric washers deliver consistent power without worrying about battery life. They are the better choice for longer cleaning sessions and heavier-duty tasks. The trade-off is that you need access to a power outlet and a water source simultaneously.
Cordless models offer unmatched portability. You can clean areas far from any outlet, and setup is faster since there is no cord to manage. The compromise is limited runtime and generally lower PSI. If you value convenience over raw power, cordless is the way to go.
From my testing, corded models like the Sun Joe and CRAFTSMAN are better for regular home maintenance. Cordless options like the KEEPEAK and Flouritech shine for quick jobs, off-grid cleaning, and situations where running a power cord is impractical.
Key Features to Look For
A Total Stop System is one feature I strongly recommend. It shuts off the pump when the trigger is released, extending motor life and reducing noise. The Sun Joe SPX205E-XT, CRAFTSMAN, and Sun Joe IONMAX all include this feature.
Hose length directly affects how easily you can work. A 20-foot hose lets you clean a standard driveway without repositioning. Anything shorter, like the Karcher K 1’s 10-inch hose, means you will be moving the unit constantly. Prioritize models with at least 20 feet of hose.
Onboard storage for nozzles and accessories keeps everything organized between uses. The CRAFTSMAN excels here with dedicated clips for every component. Foam cannons, included with the MZK and Nozzlpeak, add value if you plan to wash vehicles regularly.
Safety Considerations
Never point a pressure washer at people or animals. Even a 900 PSI unit can cause serious injury at close range. Always wear closed-toe shoes and safety glasses when operating any pressure washer.
Avoid using zero-degree nozzles on fragile surfaces like car paint or wood decking. Start with a wider fan pattern, like 25 or 40 degrees, and only narrow the spray if the surface requires more aggressive cleaning. Test on an inconspicuous area first.
For electric models, always use a GFCI-protected outlet outdoors. Never operate an electric pressure washer in standing water, and keep all electrical connections dry. The GFCI plug on models like the Sun Joe and Nozzlpeak provides essential protection against electrical shock.
FAQs
What is the best pressure washer on a budget?
The Sun Joe SPX205E-XT is our top pick for budget pressure washing. It delivers 1600 PSI and 1.45 GPM with a proven track record of over 64,000 customer reviews and a 4.4-star rating. Its Total Stop System, 35-foot power cord, and 2-year warranty make it the most well-rounded option under $100.
What is the best pressure washer under 100?
For under $100, the CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 offers the best combination of brand reliability and features. It provides 1700 PSI, includes a soap applicator and turbo nozzle, and comes with a 3-year warranty. If you want maximum power, the Nozzlpeak delivers 3000 PSI at the top of the budget range.
What is the most reliable brand of pressure washer?
Sun Joe and CRAFTSMAN are the most reliable brands for budget pressure washers based on our testing and user feedback. Sun Joe has the largest review base and strong community validation on forums like Reddit. CRAFTSMAN offers the longest warranty at 3 years and has established customer service channels for replacement parts.
What PSI pressure washer is best for home use?
For typical home use like washing cars, cleaning patio furniture, and maintaining fences, 1500 to 2000 PSI is ideal. This range handles light to medium-duty tasks without risking damage to surfaces. Models like the Sun Joe SPX205E-XT at 1600 PSI and the CRAFTSMAN at 1700 PSI cover most household cleaning needs effectively.
Can you pressure wash a car with an electric washer?
Yes, you can safely pressure wash a car with an electric washer if you use the correct nozzle. Use a 40-degree or wider spray tip and keep the wand at least 12 inches from the paint surface. Electric washers between 1200 and 1900 PSI are ideal for car washing. Models with foam cannons like the MZK and Nozzlpeak are especially good for pre-wash foam application.
Final Thoughts on Budget Pressure Washers
After six weeks of testing, our team is confident that the best pressure washers under $100 in 2026 deliver genuine value for homeowners. You do not need to spend hundreds to get effective cleaning power for cars, decks, fences, and patio furniture.
The Sun Joe SPX205E-XT remains our overall top pick for its proven reliability across tens of thousands of owners. The CRAFTSMAN CMEPW1700 is the best brand-name value with its three-year warranty and included turbo nozzle. And if you want maximum cleaning power at this price, the Nozzlpeak’s 3000 PSI output is hard to beat.
For cordless convenience, the KEEPEAK leads the pack with dual batteries and 1,450 PSI, while the Flouritech offers unbeatable portability for quick grab-and-go cleaning. Whatever your budget and cleaning needs, one of these eight models will get the job done without emptying your wallet.